The Handless King

by Harley Elias

2024 NNPN National Showcase of New Plays

Two eunuch scribes argue over the transition from Cuneiform to Aramaic in 728 BCE, and in turn wrestle with the purpose of writing, changing technologies, state violence, systemic oppression, revolution, gender, disability, and the invention of poetry. A dark comedy for anyone who has ever wanted to draw triangles in clay.

2024 NNPN National Showcase of New Plays

Two eunuch scribes argue over the transition from Cuneiform to Aramaic in 728 BCE, and in turn wrestle with the purpose of writing, changing technologies, state violence, systemic oppression, revolution, gender, disability, and the invention of poetry. A dark comedy for anyone who has ever wanted to draw triangles in clay.

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The Handless King

Recommended by

  • Ally Varitek: The Handless King

    THIS is the history play I want to see! This play explores the nature of changing technologies, the origins of writing, gender, state power, resistance to it, handlessness, disability, and the invention of poetry. We go back in time to contemplate identity, expression, and language as the Assyrian empire shifts from cuneiform to Aramaic. It begs the question of art & technology in a manner that feels timely with questions about A.I. and delivered with some much-needed laughter. #SparkFest23

    THIS is the history play I want to see! This play explores the nature of changing technologies, the origins of writing, gender, state power, resistance to it, handlessness, disability, and the invention of poetry. We go back in time to contemplate identity, expression, and language as the Assyrian empire shifts from cuneiform to Aramaic. It begs the question of art & technology in a manner that feels timely with questions about A.I. and delivered with some much-needed laughter. #SparkFest23

  • Shaun Leisher: The Handless King

    A pitch black comedy about the importance of the written word. Loved the dialogue of this play.

    A pitch black comedy about the importance of the written word. Loved the dialogue of this play.

Development History

Production History

Awards

  • 2024 NNPN National Showcase of New Plays Finalist
    2024